FORT SMITH, Ark. — The Fort Smith community came together this weekend to honor military heroes in a deeply meaningful holiday tradition.

Families, volunteers, and residents gathered at the Fort Smith National Cemetery to lay Christmas wreaths on the gravestones of over 16,000 veterans who served the nation.

Philip Merry, chairman of the Christmas Honors event, described the effort as a "labor of love." Hundreds of participants solemnly placed wreaths, paying tribute to the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

"When there's a veteran, there's somebody not at the dinner table that would normally be there. Families suffer too," Merry said.

The event was deeply personal for some. Clara Kremers, a U.S. Army veteran, emphasized the importance of remembrance during the holi

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